“Authoritarianism” is defined as “the enforcement or advocacy of strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom” (“authoritarianism.” Oxford Languages). Scar Island delves into the causes, justifications, and results of authoritarian rule.

The Admiral believes he is justified in his authoritarian methods. He believes a cruel approach is needed to reform the boys, who have been spoiled by a permissive society. The Admiral’s stated opposition to reading contrasts the boys’ gravitation towards literature and reading as an alternative to a work-only approach. In fact, the success of Jonathan’s reading group, with the books that the librarian gives him, shows that authoritarianism is not the way to reach the troubled boys.

The Admiral is not the only authoritarian in the novel. Sebastian adopts the Admiral’s authoritarian approach. Like the Admiral, Sebastian does not see his authoritarian tactics as evil but as necessary. He argues his approach is key to upholding Jonathan’s suggestions to staying on the island without the adults, writing letters home, and maintaining a deception for boats that arrive for mail and deliveries. Sebastian’s grasp for power demonstrates the appeal authoritarianism can have to anyone, not just adults in positions of power.